Goats and sheep both make excellent small farm enterprises and can also be developed into profitable farm enterprises. The Washington County Extension Office will be hosting a sheep and goat short course this winter/early spring.
Four classes will teach the basics of raising sheep and/or goats for meat, fiber, or dairy. Each class is independant of the other. The classes will be held from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. each evening.
The instructors for the classes will be Jeff Semler, Washington County Agricultural Agent; Susan Schoenian, Sheep & Goat Specialist, Western Maryland Research & Education Center; and various experienced sheep and goat producers. Discussion topics will include breeds and breeding; feeding, health, and management; and marketing.
There is a $5 registration fee for each class. The registration fee will cover handouts and refreshments. To register, contact the Washington County Extension Office at (301) 791-1404 or jsemler@umd.edu. The registration deadline is the day before each class.
Tuesday, February 20
Meat Goats 101Tuesday, March 6
Meat Sheep 101Thursday, March 22
Dairy Goats 101Tuesday, April 3
Wool Sheep 101Washington County Extension Office